Useful Thoughts On Democracy As A Concept

By Jerri Perry


Scholars have different thoughts on democracy. What they can all agree on is that democracy is a form of government with four main aspects. The major facets of this concept include active participation, the rule of law, free and fair elections as well as safeguarding human rights.

The rule allows people to select leaders of their liking. Nationals choose who to represent them in parliament. They also decide on who will lead the government. Citizens make these two important decisions by choosing from among contending parties. This is done in an open and just election system. Those in government are held accountable to the electorates.

Such a system holds the citizens sovereign. This simply means that they are the topmost form of political power. Authority flows from the people to those in office. Leaders stay in office for a limited time as provided for in the constitution of a given country. Before laws and policies are made, they must be supported by the majority in parliament. However, the interests of the minorities are still protected.

The main role of citizens in the system is active participation in public life. They are obligated to acquaint themselves on civic issues. It is their duty to carefully scrutinize how their representatives utilize authority. The people must always express their beliefs and interests. An important form of participation is manifested through dynamic membership in autonomous non governmental organizations commonly referred to as civil society.

Women ought to be involved in public issues too. For a while, they have somewhat been a minority group. They non governmental associations ought to raise awareness to the women concerning their rights and responsibilities. By so doing, ladies will feel like they are needed in both political and civil elements of their country. Similar to the male members of the society, they ought to be engaged in development schemes.

Involvement in the general public should not be something forced. Similarly, membership to political parties ought to be voluntary. A person should not feel forced to be registered in an association he does not want in a democratic country. Still, no one should interfere with beliefs of others even when he does not share their beliefs. Democratic nations respect the diversity of every individual.

A country which upholds social equality ought to respect the rights and freedoms of its inhabitants. These rights are safeguarded under international law. Everyone has a right to have his own beliefs and to express himself. Religion is also an important aspect. Each person is free to practice his own religion as he deems fit. Additionally, one is free to associate with others at whichever level he pleases.

Justice is served by experienced, unbiased and autonomous individuals as provided for in the rule of law. These individuals must be in adequate numbers, have sufficient resources and be a sign of the make up of the community they serve. The rules and regulations in the country must be passed in a transparent and skillful way. In general, the various thoughts on democracy culminate to an important idea which is decree exclusively meant for the countrymen.




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